Following his 36 possession, four goal game against West Coast, Essendon midfielder Brent Stanton has revealed the number 5 guernsey - inherited off James Hird this year - provides him with strong motivation.
""You don't really realise it when you are out there playing but, before the game, when you put it on it hits you and you want to do it proud and also all the other players that have worn it before you,"" he said.
""It's been a great honour so far and always will be and if it works for me that will be good. Having this number is a great opportunity.""
Stanton said after two practice matches and a tough three or four months during pre-season he is ready for Round 1.
""I was surprised at the pace when I played my first NAB Cup game last week and playing on a big ground tonight against West Coast was good too.
""It was important to have a good blow-out before Round 1.
""I have been working hard on every area I could of my game over the pre-season and it seems to be paying off.""
Not known for his goal kicking, Stanton said he wants to make himself more of threat in 2008.
""I want to try to help the forwards out and hurt the opposition and I want to bring that into my game and make it an attribute this year,"" he said.
""I will be happy to get as many goals as I can but I have no targets, just as long as it helps the team that is the most important thing.
""The main thing is that I need to concentrate on my role and if we can all stick to our roles we will win more game. I need to focus on my running and especially hard running in each game.
""We want to win as many games as possible and we have a lot of enthusiasm this year with all the young guys. If we can keep that enthusiasm, it will help us win more games.""
